These Chocolate Cherry Brownies are the perfect fusion of rich, fudgy chocolate and juicy, sweet cherries. Every bite delivers a deep cocoa flavor enhanced by pockets of melted dark chocolate, softened cherries, and a luscious layer of cherry preserves baked right in the center. The result is a decadent treat that’s both bold and fruity, ideal for celebrations, gatherings, or simply satisfying a chocolate craving in style.
With their moist texture, layered cherry filling, and glossy finish, these brownies look and taste like something from a gourmet bakery — yet they’re incredibly easy to make at home. Whether served warm with ice cream or chilled for a denser bite, these brownies are guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love the combination of chocolate and fruit, these brownies will become your new favorite. The fresh cherries add moisture and natural sweetness, while the cherry preserves create a gooey middle layer that elevates every slice. Dark chocolate chips melt into the batter, giving an extra fudgy texture and rich flavor. They’re simple to prepare, freezer-friendly, and perfect for potlucks or dessert tables. Every square offers a satisfying balance of sweet, tart, chocolaty, and chewy.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cocoa powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking powder
Add-Ins & Filling
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
1 cup cherry preserves
Optional Toppings
Extra cherry preserves
Fresh cherries
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Add Sugars
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated and brown sugars until fully dissolved and smooth. This helps create a glossy, fudgy brownie texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined — avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
Step 5: Add Mix-Ins
Fold in the dark chocolate chips and fresh cherries, spreading them evenly through the batter.
Step 6: Layer the Brownies
Spread half of the batter in the prepared baking pan. Spoon the cherry preserves over the batter and spread into an even layer. Add the remaining batter on top and smooth the surface with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan for cleaner slices.
Step 8: Serve
Drizzle with additional cherry preserves and finish with fresh cherries for an irresistible presentation. Cut into squares and enjoy.
How to Serve
Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience. If you prefer denser brownies, chill them for an hour before slicing. These brownies also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or even a bold red wine for an adult twist.
Variations
Add chopped almonds or walnuts for a crunchy contrast. Use white chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter result. Swap cherry preserves for raspberry jam if you want a tarter fruit note. For extra indulgence, swirl more cherry preserves into the top layer before baking.
Tips for Success
Allow the melted butter mixture to cool slightly before adding the eggs to prevent scrambling. Use room-temperature eggs for smoother mixing. Don’t overbake — removing the brownies when the center is still slightly soft keeps them fudgy. Let the brownies cool fully before slicing for clean squares.
Storage and Freezing
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual squares tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or briefly warm in the microwave before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make these brownies extra fudgy?
Underbake by 2–3 minutes and chill before cutting for maximum fudginess.
Can I leave out the cherry preserves?
You can, but the preserves add a gooey layer that makes these brownies especially decadent.
Conclusion
Irresistible Chocolate Cherry Brownies offer the perfect harmony of deep chocolate flavor and vibrant cherry sweetness. With their fudgy texture, fruity filling, and rich chocolaty finish, they’re guaranteed to become a dessert you’ll make again and again. Whether for holidays, parties, or a cozy night in, these brownies deliver a memorable flavor burst in every bite.
Print
Irresistible Chocolate Cherry Brownies
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 cup cherry preserves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and line with parchment paper.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually stir into the butter mixture until just blended.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips and fresh cherries.
- Spread half of the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spoon cherry preserves over the batter and spread evenly. Top with the remaining batter and smooth the surface.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan before cutting into squares.
- Drizzle with extra cherry preserves and top with additional fresh cherries before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 squares
- Calories: 320 kcal
